ALT Project: Student Online Readiness Tool (SORT)
Project Description
While online instruction provides many new opportunities in learning, this approach may not be the best choice for all students. Research studies indicate that there are six main topics closely mapped to a student's success in an online learning environment. To determine whether online learning may or may not be appropriate, students are advised to assess their readiness, goals, and learning preferences prior to beginning an online course. To help students make the right decision about enrolling in an online course, ALT created the Student Online Readiness Tool (SORT) so they can rate themselves in each of these areas.
SORT provides a brief description of the six topic areas, followed by a questionnaire. Based on individual responses to the questions, SORT provides feedback creating a personal readiness profile along with suggested strategies for success and links to additional information. After reviewing the feedback and strategies, students should be able to make an informed decision about whether to consider online study. As an added bonus, the information in SORT and the feedback analysis should help them anticipate what to expect from an online course.
Audience
USG students wishing to take online courses and USG institutions supporting distance education students.